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[Osteomyelitis after malleolar fractures]
M Milankov1, J Krajcinović, S Vukadinović
1Department for Orthopaedic Surgery and Traumatology, University School of Medicine, Novi Sad.
Abstract:
Over a ten-year period, 485 patients suffering from malleous fracture were operated at the Department for Orthopaedic Surgery and Traumatology in Novi Sad. Postoperative infection appeared in ten cases (2.06%). Eight of these patients primarily had open fractures, and two of them had closed ones. Osteosynthesis of the lateral malleous had most frequently been treated by the use of panel and screws. Staphylococcus aureus was isolated as symptom of the infection in eight cases. In treatment of malleous osteomyelitis, the debridement of focus of infection together with fixation material extraction was the most frequently performed operative method. During a two-year period no exacerbation, seven patients was observed while at control examination three patients had secretion from fistula. Mobility of ankle joint was limited in most cases, while walking imposed no pain.
Insights
Malleous fracture surgery had a 2.06% infection rate, often linked to open fractures and Staphylococcus aureus. Treatment involved debridement and hardware removal, with most patients experiencing limited ankle mobility but no walking pain.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Traumatology
- Infectious Disease
Context:
- A decade-long study at the Department for Orthopaedic Surgery and Traumatology in Novi Sad.
- Involved 485 patients undergoing surgery for malleous fractures.
Purpose:
- To analyze the incidence and characteristics of postoperative infections following malleous fracture surgery.
- To evaluate treatment methods for malleous osteomyelitis and patient outcomes.
Summary:
- Postoperative infection occurred in 2.06% of 485 malleous fracture surgeries.
- Open fractures (8/10) and Staphylococcus aureus (8/10) were common in infected cases.
- Osteomyelitis treatment focused on debridement and hardware removal, leading to limited ankle mobility but pain-free ambulation in most observed patients.
Impact:
- Highlights the risk of infection in malleous fracture surgery, particularly with open fractures.
- Informs surgical practices regarding infection prevention and management strategies.
- Provides insights into the long-term functional outcomes and complications associated with malleous fracture treatment.